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Words: Tivania Moodley | Images: Supplied

The business of baking combines a passion for people and the love of all things decadent. Roxanne Perumal took a chance on a business she had no experience in, based on her love for art and people, and developed Cardamom Cake Boutique and Confectionery into a designer cake business with a growing clientele.

How did your business start?

A friend of mine had been running a cake business from her home in Durban for a while and then had to relocate to Gauteng. After moving, she continued to receive many enquiries for her products, so she convinced me to take over the business. After much debate, especially considering the fact that I had no experience in baking or decorating, I decided to give it a try and baked my very first cake for family and friends two years ago. I had such positive feedback that I decided to take on this adventure. In 2016, I began Cardamom Cake Boutique and Confectionary from scratch without any experience or equipment.

Why did you choose this area to set up shop?

I decided to use my home in Brindhaven, Verulam, as a venue to set up shop so I can focus on building capital to eventually open my own bakery. It’s a well-developed area which is quite safe and secure. Also, it’s quite central and adds to the convenience.

How did you find your premises?

This is a family home and has been in our family for the past 26 years. It was initially advertised in the newspapers and that’s how we came to purchase the property.

Why are they ideally suited to your business?

Working from home is a temporary measure but affords me the opportunity to work flexible hours and helps reduce overheads which enables me to grow my team.

Who are your neighbours?

As I am situated in a residential area, my neighbours are families.

What are the rental/sales prices like in this area?

Rentals in Brindhaven, which is a residential area, range from R4,500 to R10,000 per month. Homes sell from approximately R1m upwards.

How many people go through your business each day?

During weekdays, I see about five clients a day. Over the weekend, I can serve up to 10 clients a day for designer cake orders.

Do you have any expansion plans?

Yes, my long-term plan is to open up a bakery that will double as a cake studio with a cake showroom.

Do you operate online as well?

My future plans include a website where customers can create their own cakes according to their flavour preference and design, and get a quote immediately. It will also allow customers to place their orders directly online.

What’s your most popular item?

The decadent chocolate cake filled with chocolate ganache and a hint of sea salt; and the peanut-butter dream cake.

See for yourself:

Cardamom Cake Boutique and Confectionery
074 689 4384
info@cardamom-cakes.co.za

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